New Denver council committee pushes South Platte River growth

State of play: The South Platte River in Denver spans 12.5 miles, Councilmember Jamie Torres said during Wednesday's meeting.

• Current and future projects along the riverfront include a mixed-used complex in Sun Valley and the River Mile development that intends to effectively create a new neighborhood where Elitch Gardens currently sits.
• 13 total projects are ongoing along the river's trail, said Adam Lind, trails program manager at the city parks and recreation department.

Zoom out: The committee will consider rezoning within a half-mile area from the river, Council President Amanda Sandoval tells us.

• It will also oversee the city's $350 million agreement with the Army Corps of Engineers signed last year to reduce flood risks on the waterway.

The latest: On Wednesday, council members approved three measures, including a new three-year, $8.5 million-agreement with the Denver Housing Authority to build the first phase of a riverfront park in Sun Valley.

• It approved adding $5.1 million total to two existing agreements with the Mile High Flood District for drainage, trail and flood control improvements on the river.

Threat level: The city says it expects to find contaminates like asbestos along the riverfront as it begins excavating the land for further development and improvements.

What's next: The panel will meet on the second Wednesday of each month.